A historic church in Toronto’s west end, St. Anne’s Anglican Church, has been “completely destroyed” by a fire, along with all the artifacts it contained, according to the city’s fire chief. The fire was reported just before 8 a.m. on Sunday. Firefighters remained on the scene overnight to monitor and address hotspots. The Ontario Fire Marshal and Toronto police are expected to investigate the fire’s cause, which has not yet been deemed criminal.

Deputy Fire Chief Jim Jessop confirmed the total destruction of the church and its artifacts, calling it a “devastating loss for the community.” Toronto police have established an online portal for the public to submit photos or videos that might aid in the investigation. Gladstone Avenue has been closed between College and Dundas streets due to the ongoing efforts to control the blaze, and motorists and pedestrians are advised to use alternate routes.

Rev. Don Beyers, a parish priest at the church, expressed deep sorrow for the congregation, stating that the fire’s damage was overwhelming. Despite the tragedy, he affirmed the church’s commitment to continue its mission. The church, built in 1907-1908 and located in the Little Portugal neighborhood, was home to early paintings by three Group of Seven artists, which adorned the chancel and dome and were lost in the fire.

Designated a national historic site of Canada in 1996 and protected under the Ontario Heritage Act since 1980, St. Anne’s featured murals depicting the life of Christ, overseen by Group of Seven member J.E.H. MacDonald and painted by artists including Franklin Carmichael and Frederick Varley. Toronto Fire Services spokesperson Deepak Chagger confirmed that nothing appears to have been saved from the fire.

Coun. Alejandra Bravo, representing the ward where the church is located, noted the community’s profound grief over the loss of a space that provided essential support and unity. The fire was already deep-seated when firefighters arrived, forcing them to retreat as the roof began to collapse. The main body of the fire was extinguished by mid-morning.

Rev. Beyers mentioned that the church was secure and locked, making the fire’s origin a mystery. Police received reports of windows breaking and heavy smoke. Adjoining homes were evacuated as a precaution, but no injuries or occupants were reported inside the church.